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How to Identify the Nutritional Needs of a Healthy Senior Diet
It’s no secret that a healthy senior diet is essential for a healthy body. What many people don’t recognize, however, is that nutritional needs for adults change as we get older. Nutritional specialists at Tufts University have developed the MyPlate system, which is a more advanced version of the earlier food pyramid, giving up-to-date nutritional advice for older individuals in particular.
The MyPlate for Older Adults model features important information on foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals and low in sugar, salt, and fat; however, it also gives advice on topics like advised physical activities and fluid consumption, issues that are of specific concern for seniors.
Since activity levels are oftentimes lessened, older adults tend to require fewer calories as they age, but they also still require the same or greater levels of nutrients and regular activity for optimal health. MyPlate for Older Adults advises:
- Brightly-colored vegetables, such as peppers and carrots
- Deep-colored fruits, such as melons and berries
- Whole, fortified, enriched grains and cereals, such as brown rice
- Low- and non-fat dairy products, like yogurt and low lactose milk
- Liquid vegetable oils and soft spreads, which contain lower amounts of saturated and trans fats
- Spices as a substitute to salt
- Liquids like water and fat-free milk
- Physical activity, such as walking, resistance training, and light housework
